33rd Annual Orthodox Church Musicians’ Conference
Sept. 30–Oct. 4, 2026, Holy Virgin Protection Cathedral, Des Plaines IL
Achieving the Ideal Orthodox Choral Sound
Celebrating the Centennial of A.D. Kastalsky’s Repose
Lectures, workshops, and rehearsals at this year’s conference will explore the cultivation of the ideal choral sound, with special focus on pitch, vocal quality, and the balance of voices. In addition, this year marks the 100th anniversary of the repose of Alexander Kastalsky, whose legacy in Russian Orthodox church music will be explored.
Conference events will be held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Rosemont, a full-service conference center with easy access to the best Chicago has to offer, culminating in hierarchical divine services at the beautiful Holy Virgin Protection Cathedral.
Special attention will also be given to the development of church singing in English-language parishes and missions.
Accommodations
The 33rd Annual Russian Orthodox Musicians’ Conference will be held from Sept. 30–Oct. 4 at Holy Virgin Protection Cathedral in Des Plaines, Illinois. Lodging for the conference is arranged at DoubleTree Hotel Chicago O’Hare Airport – Rosemont and is included in the registration fee. All lectures, rehearsals and meals are also included and will be at the hotel starting with Thursday breakfast until Saturday afternoon. Friday night dinner is on your own – a great opportunity to explore local dining options in historic Chicago. Wednesday evening there will be a welcome reception with light refreshments during registration. Dinner on Saturday after Vigil and the final banquet on Sunday after Liturgy will be in the church hall.
Travel Information
The Synodal Liturgical Music Commission
The Russian Orthodox Church Musicians’ Conference is sponsored by the Synodal Liturgical Music Commission. The Commission consists of:
- Very Reverend Andre Papkov, chairman
- Protodeacon Serge Arlievsky
- Dr. Irina du Quenoy
- Peter Fekula
- Vadim Gan
- Michelle Ganson
- Gregory Kotar
- Vladimir Krassovsky
- Dr. Kurt Sander